.webp&w=3840&q=75)
Afro-American Studies
The Bachelor of Science in Afro-American Studies at the University of Wisconsin offers a comprehensive examination of the African-American experience through a multidisciplinary lens, including history, literature, politics, sociology, and cultural studies. This four-year, full-time program allows students to engage with key themes such as racial identity, social justice, black culture, and the impact of the African diaspora on global societies. Students will explore seminal works of African-American literature from authors such as Langston Hughes, Toni Morrison, James Baldwin, and Zora Neale Hurston, while also gaining an understanding of the historical and socio-political contexts that have shaped African-American life in the United States.
The program combines academic rigor with hands-on learning, providing students with opportunities to engage in research projects, community outreach, and internships that connect classroom theory to real-world experiences. Students will analyze important social movements, from the Civil Rights Movement to Black Lives Matter, and study the complexities of racial inequality, cultural representation, and African-American contributions to art, music, film, and politics. Graduates will be well-prepared for careers in social services, education, public policy, journalism, and community advocacy, or for further study in Afro-American studies, law, or sociology.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Afro-American Studies
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Science
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 January 2026
- Location: University of Wisconsin, United States
- Field of Study: Literature
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Afro-American Studies
- Introduction to Afro-American Studies: History, Culture, and Identity
- Survey of African-American Literature
- Introduction to Sociology: Race and Ethnicity in the U.S.
- History of Slavery and Its Legacies
- Black Political Thought and Social Movements
Year 2 – Intermediate Afro-American Studies and Cultural Analysis
- African-American Literature: From the Harlem Renaissance to Contemporary Works
- Race, Class, and Gender: African-American Women in History and Literature
- African-American History: Slavery, Reconstruction, and the Civil Rights Era
- African Diaspora: Cultural and Social Impact Across the Americas
- The Black Arts Movement and Cultural Expression
Year 3 – Advanced Topics in Afro-American Studies
- African-American Political Movements: From Civil Rights to Black Power
- Contemporary African-American Literature and Culture
- Sociology of Race: Theories of Racial Inequality and Social Justice
- African-American Music and Its Influence on American Culture
- African-American Philosophy: Identity, Liberation, and Justice
Year 4 – Capstone Project, Research, and Career Development
- Capstone Research Project in Afro-American Studies
- Internship in Community Outreach, Social Justice, or Public Policy
- Advanced Seminar in African-American History, Culture, or Politics
- Professional Development: Career Networking and Interview Preparation
- Graduate School Preparation in Afro-American Studies, Law, or Sociology
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Afro-American Studies from the University of Wisconsin are well-prepared for careers in fields that involve community advocacy, social justice, and education. Many graduates work in non-profit organizations, government agencies, or community outreach programs, where they apply their understanding of racial dynamics and African-American culture to promote social change. Others pursue careers in education, teaching Afro-American literature, history, or cultural studies at the secondary or post-secondary level. Graduates can also enter roles in media, journalism, and public relations, where their expertise in African-American issues and cultural representation is highly valued. Many choose to continue their education in graduate programs in Afro-American studies, sociology, law, or political science, or pursue careers in public policy, civil rights law, or urban planning.
Why Choose This Program
The Bachelor of Science in Afro-American Studies at the University of Wisconsin offers a unique and comprehensive exploration of the African-American experience, combining historical analysis, literary criticism, and cultural studies to foster a deep understanding of race, identity, and social justice. With its emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, students have the opportunity to engage with a variety of academic fields while examining key issues that shape the lives of African-Americans in the U.S. and around the world. The program also provides valuable opportunities for internships, community engagement, and research, offering real-world experience that complements academic study. Whether you are interested in working in social services, education, or public policy, the University of Wisconsin’s Afro-American Studies program provides the skills and knowledge needed to make meaningful contributions to social justice and racial equity in society.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 608-262-2433
Email: admissions@grad.wisc.edu
Address: 217 Bascom Hall, 500 Lincoln Drive, Madison, WI 53706, USA
